Top 5 reasons to visit IBM at DistribuTECH 2019

There is no shortage of challenges facing utilities today. These challenges range from aging infrastructure and workforce to distributed energy resources (DER) management and control. Further, the abundance of disruptive, emerging, and innovative technologies are endless. Therein lies the challenge for operators and IT managers tasked with researching, and eventually incorporating, the right technology and automation into their organizations.

This year, among the 500+ exhibitors on the DistribuTECH show floor, IBM will showcase how utilities are applying advanced analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) to capture the next level of business value and “put smart to work.”

In just three short weeks, on February 5-9, in New Orleans, LA, DistribuTECH 2019 will be in session! Eleven tracks of learning, networking, planning, and sharing with your peers, industry experts, leaders, partners, and more. It can’t be missed and I’m going to share just a few reasons why. As DistribuTECH has become somewhat of a reunion for many peers and colleagues in our industry, let us be the first to welcome you and say, “Laissez les bons temps rouler.”

1) Let’s get the conversation started

We plan to deliver valuable content on topics of interest to you. Real time ‘news feed’ style content will be available via livestream during the event and for reference later. With speakers from organizations like Oncor, UKPN, Schneider, Entergy, and CLECO, it’s sure to be an engaging conversation. Whether your biggest challenges are around DER control, vegetation management, or cybersecurity– we have clients and partners ready to share their stories.

Who do you want to hear from? Let us know in the blog comments. We’ll track them down and let you know when to tune in!

In addition to the livestream content, there will be many opportunities to speak with domain experts to deepen your understanding of the capabilities available to achieve greater return on investment (ROI) for your business. The expo area will include an IBM booth #1114 (we like to think of it as more of an open social space) where you can engage in conversations about industry topics and our offerings with both IBM and business partner subject matter experts. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet with solution leaders to get deeper insight into what is possible for your organization.

If you prefer to schedule a time to connect with one of our colleagues/business partners specifically, please reach out to me at reggers@us.ibm.com. We can’t wait to meet with you!

Don’t take our word for it! Let us show you how utilities are applying advanced analytics and AI to capture the next level of business value. Our team of subject matter professionals are equipped to demonstrate our latest developments and experiences in real time.

– Do you have interest in the latest ways utilities are maximizing asset and resource investments, while reducing risks and costs in ways not possible before?

– Have you seen the new uX and UI for Maximo?

– Curious how our Worker’s Safety offering is delivering value in the field and provides pre-integration to Maximo?

Just drop by anytime, we’ll be waiting for you.

4) Make employee safety a priority

Did you know that 178 work-related accidents happen every 15 seconds? It’s a staggering number with potentially devastating effects on utility employees. Businesses pay a high price, too. The United States Department of Labor estimates that the annual costs associated with occupational injuries and illnesses total USD $170 billion.

Accidents in the workplace are a well-documented problem, with potentially devastating consequences for employees and employers alike. Despite clear safety regulations and procedures, risk management remains a huge challenge for utilities. Thankfully, there are new and innovative ideas that can solve these challenges using Internet of Things. Visit us at Booth 1114 to learn more.

5) Support the Power Women Networking Breakfast

Celebrating women in the workplace is something we are passionate about. In fact, IBM’s legacy of leadership in the advancement of diversity and inclusion is one of the reasons I’m proud to be an IBMer. But there is so much more that needs to be done in the global business community across all industries.

On Wednesday, February 6th at 7:30am, DistribuTECH will hold it’s 5thpower women networking breakfast. I’ll be there – join me to share your story and together we’ll drive real change and help shape our industry’s future.

And, oh by the way, men are welcome too! We celebrate not just the women who achieve, but also the men that create the environment to let women step up and succeed.

What are you waiting for?

If you’re ready to “put smart to work” in 2019, make plans to engage with IBM at Dtech. The countdown is on. Dtech kicks off in just 3 short weeks, so schedule your time to connect with IBM at Dtech by emailing me at reggers@us.ibm.com today. We can’t wait to see you there!

DistribuTECH 2019 is an event you don’t want to miss. For more information or to register, visit www.DistribuTECH.com. And bookmark the livestream link!

There is no shortage of challenges facing utilities today. These challenges range from aging infrastructure and workforce to distributed energy resources (DER) management and control. Further, the abundance of disruptive, emerging, and innovative technologies are endless. Therein lies the challenge for operators and IT managers tasked with researching, and eventually incorporating, the right technology and […]

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